Membrane deformability of metabolically depleted human red cells.

Abstract

The membrane deformability of metabolically depleted human red cells has been measured using a simplified technique of Nuclepore aspiration. Cells depleted in the presence of 25 microM--2 mM Ca2+ were 11.3%-15.7% less deformable than fresh cells. Cells depleted in HEPES-buffered saline with 25 microM Ca2+ and 1 mM EGTA were as deformable as fresh cells. Echinocytes formed by dinitrophenol treatment of fresh cells were also as deformable as fresh cells. Deformability was measured by red cell aspiration in Nucleopore filters with 0.6 micrometer pores and low pore density (2 x 10(6)/cm2). A rapid and reliable separation of cells and filter with little cell disorientation, combined with simultaneous mounting for scanning microscopy, was achieved with the use of double-sided Scotch tape.